The global drive towards sustainable energy practices has led to numerous initiatives aimed at reducing carbon emissions and promoting energy efficiency. One such initiative is the European City Facility (EUFC), which aims to support local authorities in developing innovative and sustainable energy projects. As part of this initiative, the Municipality of Edessa has organised an event on Monday 10th April 2023, from 11.00-12.30 EEST, to enhance its role in promoting energy sustainability.
INZEB has been at the forefront of promoting alternative financing schemes to support energy-poor households. Alice Corovessi, the Managing Director of INZEB and Vice President of the Renovate Europe Campaign for 2022 and 2023, will represent INZEB at the event and deliver a speech on this very topic.
Energy poverty is a critical issue that affects many households, especially those on low incomes. In Greece, for example, over 30% of households are estimated to be energy-poor, meaning they spend more than 10% of their income on energy bills. This can have a significant impact on their quality of life, health and well-being.
To address this issue, INZEB has been promoting initiatives and alternative financing schemes that can support energy-poor households. These initiatives include energy efficiency upgrades, such as insulation and lighting improvements, as well as the installation of renewable energy systems, such as solar panels. By reducing energy consumption and providing access to sustainable energy sources, households can save money on their energy bills, while also reducing their carbon footprint.
Alternative financing schemes, such as energy performance contracts and revolving funds, can provide funding for these initiatives. Energy performance contracts, for example, are agreements between an energy services company and a client, where the energy services company guarantees energy savings from the proposed measures. The savings are used to pay for the investment, with any additional savings going to the client. Revolving funds, on the other hand, provide loans to households for energy efficiency upgrades, which are repaid through the energy savings achieved.
Through her speech, Alice Corovessi will highlight the importance of such initiatives and financing schemes in addressing energy poverty and promoting energy sustainability. She will also showcase some of the successful projects that INZEB has implemented in Greece and beyond, demonstrating how local authorities can play a crucial role in promoting sustainable energy practices.
The event will be held in Greek and you may download the agenda, here.